A new supramolecular system of racemic-bis-beta-naphthol, benzoquinone and aromatic hydrocarbon, which shows high molecular recognition ability.

Racemic-bis-beta-naphthol, benzoquinone and aromatic hydrocarbons formed a new three component supramolecular system as black crystals. X-ray analysis of the crystals shows that (+)- and (-)-bis-beta-naphthol and benzoquinone form a quinhydrone-type crystalline lattice with aromatic stacking and hydrogen bonding in which the third aromatic hydrocarbon component is accommodated. As the cavity created has a definite shape and size, only hydrocarbons which fit the cavity are selectively included.